Comprehensive Load Capacity Analysis for Cold-Formed Steel Beam Design
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Analysis & Design of Cold-Formed Steel Flexural Members
Cold-Formed Steel BeamDesign is an intuitive yet powerful software solution for the analysis and design of cold-formed steel flexural members, fully compliant with AISI Specifications (1996/99 and 2001).
The software calculates the load-carrying capacity of simple or continuous beams (2-4 spans) under uniform or concentrated loads. Its targeted analysis feature provides immediate verification by calculating precise capacity values for any user-specified span length. Users can easily compare different material grades for a specific section or evaluate two different sections using the same material to make optimized design choices.
Supporting both ASD and LRFD methods, the software provides results for both allowable and ultimate load capacities. Results are presented through clear, interactive graphs: envelope curves show the governing capacity across all spans, while simple curves let you examine each individual limit state—such as bending, shear, and web crippling—separately. This includes dedicated checks for construction load capacity and the nominal flexural moment (Mₙ).
For design optimization, the software calculates efficiency ratios (load capacity per unit weight) within comprehensive tables. This functionality allows for the quick selection of the most efficient cross-sections, material grades, and design constraints.
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Section and Material Database
BeamDesign supports 14 cross-section types (C, U, Z, ZU, L, LU, H, RB, SB, IC, CC, IU, T, and TU) and includes several ASTM steel standards.
The software comes preloaded with standard section dimensions from the AISI Manual and also integrates manufacturer-specific data.
Custom Section Capabilities
Users can define custom cross-sections by specifying all geometric parameters, with the flexibility to create unique profiles.
You can easily define, analyze, and save your own custom section dimensions.
Instant Property Calculations
The software performs complete section analysis, calculating moments of inertia, section moduli, elastic critical moment, and other key properties.
The program also verifies dimensional limits—such as width-to-thickness ratios and other specification criteria.
Structural Analysis Capabilities
Analyze simple or continuous beams (2-4 equal spans) in full compliance with AISI Specifications. Determine the maximum allowable uniform load or concentrated load across variable span lengths, with results presented in comprehensive envelope curves and tables.
Utilize ASD, LRFD, or LSD approaches to calculate allowable loads or ultimate loads.
Investigate all seven limit state components - including bending, lateral buckling, shear, web crippling, and deflection - plus the equivalent construction load.
Input specific span lengths to obtain exact load-capacity values.
Optimize designs using efficiency ratios (load/weight) from envelope tables.
Compare different steel grades for a single section, or different sections with the same steel grade, to make informed design decisions.
Loading & Support Conditions
Load Types: Uniform and Concentrated Loads (applied at mid-span).
Load Direction: Analysis for both Gravity and Uplift loading conditions.
Flange Restraint:
- Fastened Flanges: Top, Bottom, Both, or Unfastened.
- Fastened to Support Flanges
Bracing: Specify bracing against lateral displacement and/or twisting.
Special Systems: Design for members with One Flange Fastened to a Standing Seam Roof System.
Bearing Supports: Model interior laps; variable bearing widths; and web stiffeners for end, intermediate, and interior supports.
Advanced Design Features
Cold Work of Forming: Account for the increase in yield strength (Fya) due to cold-forming.
Web Holes: Analysis of sections with web holes (available for CS, CU, ZS, ZU, IC, IU, and CC sections).
Bending Coefficient (Cb): User-definable value to account for moment gradient and increase critical buckling strength.
Variable Parameters: User can define:
- Maximum allowable deflection limits
- Beam spacing
- Reference span length and required load
Output Details: Individual load components are displayed for all curves at the required span length.
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For over four decades, since 1980, our team of software developers and structural engineers has been dedicated to creating specialized solutions for the cold-formed steel industry. We developed Devstruc to provide precise, practical tools for professionals, educators, and manufacturers.
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